Archie Hayes 
The genesis of digital art dates back to the 1970s, an era marked by greater accessibility to computer technologies and the birth of specialized artistic software. Prior to this time, artists were largely confined to conventional mediums like painting, sculpture, and printmaking. However, digital advancements introduced a plethora of new creative outlets, offering artists innovative approaches and tools to express their artistic vision.
Terminology Evolution
Over the decades, the nomenclature associated with digital art has undergone significant transformation. Initially, the artwork created through computer algorithms or programs was referred to as “computer art.” As technology became more sophisticated and began to merge with different forms of media, the label “multimedia art” rose to prominence. Nowadays, the term “digital art” serves as an inclusive descriptor that encompasses a variety of methods and practices, all of which fall under the more general classification of new media art.
Components of Digital Art
In digital art, several key elements converge to create the final piece. These include:
- Software: Artists use specialized software like Adobe Photoshop, CorelDRAW, and freeware alternatives like GIMP to facilitate the creative process.
- Hardware: Digital artists often employ hardware such as graphic tablets, styluses, and computers, effectively serving as their digital canvas and brushes.
- Mediums: The finished artwork can be showcased across diverse platforms, ranging from traditional gallery spaces to online forums and social media platforms.
- Interactivity: Certain branches of digital art offer interactive experiences, such as those afforded by virtual reality or interactive installations.
Types of Digital Art
Digital art can manifest in a multitude of forms, each carrying its unique characteristics and modes of creation:
- 2D Art: This is perhaps the most ubiquitous form, encompassing digital paintings, illustrations, and photo manipulation.
- 3D Art: In this type, artists employ 3D modeling software to develop three-dimensional objects and landscapes.
- Vector Art: Created using geometric shapes and figures, this type of art is scalable without compromising quality.
- Pixel Art: A nostalgic variant of digital art, here artists build images pixel by pixel.
- Animated Art: This category extends from basic GIFs to intricate animations and motion graphics.
Digital Art within the Scope of New Media Art
New media art serves as a broader category that envelops various technologically oriented art forms, including digital art. Works under this broader category often feature a level of interactivity, span multiple mediums, and may include performance elements as part of the artistic experience.
Conclusion
Digital art, a multifaceted and constantly evolving artistic discipline, leverages digital technology as an integral part of the creative process. Originating in the 1970s, it has transitioned through various terminologies and forms to become a versatile and universally acknowledged art form today. Operating under the expansive category of new media art, digital art encompasses a diverse range of mediums, technologies, and interactive elements, continually expanding the horizons of artistic possibility.
